What is a good age for an MBA? - The Advisor (2024)

Some say age is just a number… some say it’s a state of mind. But if you're wondering if it’s too late for grad school, age can weigh heavily on your decision-making process.

So what is a good age for an MBA? An MBA is valuable at any age if you’re in it to develop a skillset, try something new, and become a more well-rounded leader, manager, or individual contributor.

For an older student with more experience, an MBA may be more about building a new muscle and staying on-trend than making a big move. On the other hand, if a career change or promotion is in the cards, earning the degree at a younger age means you’ll have more time to leverage its value.

What is the average age to get an MBA?

According to a recent article in Poets & Quants,1the average age of an MBA student in the USA is 28—a number that reflects full-time MBA programs.

Iowa MBA students clock in slightly above that average, at 32 years old. Online MBA students across the board enter their program at an average of 33 years of age, according to U.S. News & World Report.2

The MBA average age varies somewhat by school. Top-ranked, full-time programs tend to attract a younger group of students. Of the top-50 ranked full-time programs, Stanford’s average age for MBA admits is 27 (the youngest average), with Washington (Foster) and Rice landing at 29 (the oldest).

According to a Graduate Management Admissions Council survey of application trends,329% of MBA applicants have between three and six years of work experience.

What may surprise you is that 25% of applicants overall had 10+ years under their belt. Executive MBA programs had the majority of more-experienced applicants (72%) but professional (part-time) and full-time MBA programs had 24% and 12% respectively as well.

Is an MBA worth it after 30? 40? 50?

The consensus among educators and students is that an MBA education adds value at any age. For younger students in their 30s, the credential could help propel you into higher-level roles earlier in your career.

Making a career change at 40 with an MBA is definitely possible when you leverage your education to pivot into a completely new field—or move into a leadership role.

In your 50s, an MBA could offer context around changes to the business landscape, new technologies, and improve your ability to communicate with colleagues across teams and varying age groups.

Iowa MBA Sarah Thompson went for her MBA in the middle of a decades-long career with TransAmerica after missing out on two promotions:

What is a good age for an MBA? - The Advisor (1)

“You’re never going to think you have the time or resources to get your MBA, but getting started is the important thing. Once you have that degree, people will know you’ve got what it takes.”

For Sarah, the MBA made a huge impact on her career, earning her those two promotions she initially missed out on. It’s also contributed to her personal growth. “I am dramatically different,” Sarah says. "More confident, more willing to ask hard questions, more ready to take risks.”

What is a good age for an MBA? - The Advisor (2024)

FAQs

What is a good age for an MBA? - The Advisor? ›

Although it's true that most MBA students are between 25 to 32 years old, do not let that dissuade you from pursuing an MBA degree if you do not fit into the average MBA age range. If you are a less-traditional applicant and want some further guidance, please reach out to an experienced MBA admissions consultant.

What is the best age for an MBA? ›

When you hit 27 or so, it is probably the best time to apply for an MBA. Statistics show that the average age of MBA applicants is between 26 and 28 years old.

Is mid 30s too old for MBA? ›

Pursuing an MBA after the age of 30 is a significant decision, but it can be a transformative step in your career journey. While there are challenges, the advantages, including your experience, maturity, and clear career goals, can make this journey rewarding.

Is MBA worth it at 45? ›

Are There Benefits To Starting My MBA Degree at 45? Yes, increased professional experience and maturity can allow older students to take full advantage of an MBA. At 45, students will have a clear sense of purpose and be able to use their education to gain a competitive advantage in the job market.

Is an MBA good for a financial advisor? ›

An MBA teaches students valuable analytical and leadership skills that prepare them for opportunities across a number of sectors and careers in finance. For instance, MBA graduates may go on to pursue careers as consultants, chief financial officers, financial analysts, or financial managers.

Is 28 too old to get an MBA? ›

The average age of an MBA student is 28 years old. If you're considering getting an MBA at 30 or above, you might be pondering that question. While you're never too old to improve your business education, enrolling in an MBA course may prohibit you from achieving your career goals.

Is 38 too old for MBA? ›

Really, there is no age limit. While many people in their 30s opt for a part-time program or an executive MBA (EMBA) in their late 30s or early 40s, there are always exceptions.

Is 35 too old for Harvard MBA? ›

Yes, doing an MBA at 30 or even after 40 is a feasible option. It is never too late to continue your MBA after 30 or study anything that you are passionate about at any stage of your life.

Can I get an MBA at 35? ›

You're never too old,” NYU Stern's longtime Associate Dean of MBA Admissions and Program Innovation Isser Gallogly told us at the CentreCourt MBA Festival a few years ago. “It comes down to work experience, it depends on what your background is and what your goals are.”

Can I go to Harvard at 35? ›

Article. There is not an age requirement for applying to Harvard, though applicants are expected to have some secondary school experience.

Is MBA worth it at 50? ›

An MBA is valuable at any age if you're in it to develop a skillset, try something new, and become a more well-rounded leader, manager, or individual contributor. For an older student with more experience, an MBA may be more about building a new muscle and staying on-trend than making a big move.

Is 44 too old for MBA? ›

The bottom line is that you are never too old for an MBA. Lifelong learning is crucial for skill development, and your pursuit to be better in your line of work will not go unnoticed or unappreciated.

How many years should you work before an MBA? ›

Most MBA students tend to have between three and six years of work experience, and the further you drift from that sweet spot, the lower your chances of being accepted.

Is a CFA or MBA better? ›

If you're looking for a qualification to enhance your career in finance or establish your finance credentials, the CFA Program is the way to go. If you're looking for a qualification to boost your career outside of finance, or looking to move across industries, an MBA might be a better bet.

Is MBA worth it financially? ›

Earning an MBA can help professionals improve their career prospects, increase compensation, and gain job promotions. An MBA can provide the skills and knowledge necessary to start a new business, and many employers require an MBA for specific management or leadership positions.

What is the average salary for MBA and CFA? ›

While ZipRecruiter is seeing annual salaries as high as $133,500 and as low as $51,000, the majority of Mba Cfa salaries currently range between $68,000 (25th percentile) to $98,500 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $113,000 annually across the United States.

What is the best age for master? ›

Start Your Master's Degree Program Today

The average age of people who get their master's degrees is the late 20s to early 30s; however, most master's programs are filled with a wide range of ages. It's never too late to pursue your master's degree, even if you're in your 40s, 50s, 60s, or beyond.

Is it too early to get an MBA? ›

Common wisdom states that MBA candidates should have at least three years of professional experience before enrolling in a program, but many business school students in on-campus and online MBA programs for working professionals have fewer. These early career applicants are plentiful.

Does MBA increase salary? ›

Generally, you can expect a nearly 50% increase in your salary after completing an MBA. A study from Transparent Career showed that MBAs reported about a 46% increase in salary after earning their degree, with a $41,000 average higher salary, and $95,000 extra in total compensation.

What is the average age for Executive MBA? ›

While the “E” in “EMBA” does stand for “executive,” applicants are not required to hold executive job titles. With an average age of nearly 39 and 12 years of work experience, many are experienced managers and often have other advanced degrees such as JDs, MDs, or other master's degrees.

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